April 18, 2009

An orchestra created entirely through YouTube performed in New York’s Carnegie Hall on Wednesday night. After auditioning over 3,000 musicians -via YouTube submissions- and tallying via online “favorites” voting with final judging by major orchestras, 93 were chosen from 30 countries and flown in to perform Chinese composer, Tan Dun’s ‘Internet Symphony No. 1’ . Apparently the performance had a standing ovation (around the world) and in particular at Carnegie Hall under the baton of Michael Tilson Thomas.

February 10, 2009

“Hey, Jerrie” (Jerrie Thills) is a new music video by Allee Willis- superstar-award-winning songwriter, whose songs have sold over 50 MILLION copies and include some of my favorites, how about, “September” for Earth, Wind and Fire, The Color Purple, the soundtrack to Beverly Hills Cop (only heard it a zillion times with my boys) and that’s nothing, read about it: she is a prolific songwriter, artist, techno-kitsch phenomenon.

About Jerrie’s oxygen, Allee says, “It’s slowed her down some, just for the sheer pain in the ass of having a tank as a third arm. Not to mention those tubes that connect it to your nose. But I’m so into the quirkiness of a 91 year old drummer, female no less, that the oxygen just becomes an interesting fashion accessory and makes the overall intensity of what I’m seeing and hearing even better.”

I want to be making music when I’m 91. Check out Jerrie Thill, playing in time with the bursts of oxygen from her tank. You go!